It’s Friday night and you’re getting ready to go to a party: hair is done, make-up is perfect, and you’re wearing a great new outfit. Then comes the shoes. As much as you want to wear those adorable heels you just bought, you just know that by the end of the night (and by that, I mean by the time you reach your doorstep), your feet are going to be in agony. So you either bite the bullet and hope your feet will become so numb they won’t hurt anymore, or you forego the heels entirely (very disappointing, I know). However, there are ways to make heels more comfortable. And there is always the alternative of cute, going-out worthy flats.
If you want comfort and style, there are plenty of options out there. Ballet flats are probably your best bet; and you can make them feel fun and stylish by buying a pair that follows this winter’s trends: bright colors (particularly burgundy or forest green, but anything unexpected works!) buckles, metallics, and sequins.
Of course, we can’t forget that it is one of the best times of the year: boot season! Personally, I love boots, and they definitely work as a going-out shoe (even without a stiletto heel). For instance, cowboy boots are having a moment – they’re playful, and allow you to wear a dressy outfit without feeling like you’re going to a cocktail party. Studs, color, prints and other winter trends are also simple ways to make a boot feel special. Lastly, a girl’s best friend is the wedge-heeled boot! This is a great way to get the same effect of a heeled shoe without the pain (also good for sandals when it’s warmer).
Now, even with these alternatives, I’m sure many of you will still want to opt for the high heel now and then. I know I always wear my super high heels (shoes are definitely a passion – and hey, I’m only 5’2’’!), and though I’m pretty good at dismissing discomfort, that doesn’t mean they aren’t incredibly painful sometimes! Here are some ways to make those perfect party heels in your closet a bit more manageable:
- Buy shoes with a platform in the front (covered or uncovered): having the front of your foot on a more even level with the back will make walking and standing more comfortable. The best part is, the platform (especially a covered one) doesn’t take away at all from the look of the shoe.
- Buy shoes with a kitten heel, which is much shorter than a full stiletto, but still feminine and fun.
- Invest in gel pads and cushion inserts to keep your soles and toes protected while wearing the heels you already have. I reccomend Dr. Scholl’s.
- Avoid pointed-toed shoes when going out because I guarantee your toes will hurt for days!
The bottom line is that whatever you wear has to be comfortable for you. If you stumble and fall and grimace all night in heels, then don’t wear them – there are tons of flat shoes and boots that are just as chic and trendy; trust me, you’ll be happier when you don’t have to think about your aching toes. At the same time, if you’re like me and can’t imagine not going out in heels, then use the tips above and you’ll have a much more comfortable night. Happy shoe shopping, ladies!
Photo Sources:
http://www.stylehive.com/site/amiclubwear.com/tag/womens_high_heel_shoes/recent/grid/0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3368/3277831102_f5677be3d9_o.jpg
http://lacouturiernyc.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/fashiontoast3-dolcegabanna.jpg